Paradise Pet Resorts provides overnight boarding and day care services for dogs, cats, and small animals like hamsters and birds at two locations in Rohnert Park and Santa Rosa. The company also offers in-house pet grooming and dog training, and…
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Four Paws Pet Ranch provides boarding and day care services for dogs and cats at its 5.5-acre facility in Santa Rosa. In addition to offering both short- and long-term boarding in a climate-controlled environment, the company offers personalized training programs,…
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How To Choose

Finding the Best Pet Boarding Facility for Your Cat, Dog or Other Pet

Our pets are members of our family. Whether you own a single dog, cat, bird, rabbit, reptile, or pocket pet, or have multiple pets and several species, we want to know that our pets are well cared for when we have to leave them behind.

Most people who own pets will need to travel or take a vacation at some point. Others may decide to board their pets while remodeling their home or when extended family comes to visit. Some pet owners even need to board a pet when having a baby, undergoing surgery or dealing with illness or injury that makes it hard for them to temporarily care for their beloved pets.

In all of these cases, having a relationship with a good Sonoma County pet boarding facility can help ease your worries about boarding your pet.

The following articles will help you know what to look for in a kennel, interview local pet boarding facilities, and prepare your pet for their stay.

What to Look for in a Good Dog Boarding Kennel or Cat Boarding Facility
Before you make arrangements to leave your dog or cat at a boarding kennel in Sonoma County, you will want to visit to see the facility yourself. This is true for facilities in larger towns such as Petaluma, Windsor, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Cloverdale, Sebastopol, Cotati, Guerneville and Rohnert Park, and other areas including Penngrove, Salmon Creek, Sheridan, Villa Grande, Boyes Hot Springs, Fetters Hot Springs and Asti.

While the kennel may want to schedule an appointment for your tour so that they can have a staff member available to show you the facilities and answer your questions, they should be willing to show you the entire facility and everywhere your dog or cat will be. If the kennel won’t allow you to see the sleeping quarters, kennel area, play area or other areas, think twice about leaving your pet there.

What should you look for during your visit?

Are the Sonoma County pet boarding facilities clean?

Do they smell clean?

Is there adequate light and ventilation in the kennel area?

Are the indoor boarding areas a comfortable temperature?

Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring?

Are boarding pets required to have current vaccinations? (Beware of any facility that doesn’t require vaccinations of all guests.)

If you are boarding a cat, does each cat have an adequately-sized kennel and exercise area? Are litter boxes and food/water bowls separated?

Does each dog have his own indoor-outdoor run or a schedule for exercise if they are housed in an indoor run only?

Are any and all outdoor runs and exercise areas protected from the elements?

Are pets of different species housed in separate areas?

Is the staff knowledgeable, attentive and caring?

Do the Sonoma County pet boarding kennels seem as driven to provide a safe and comfortable boarding atmosphere for your dog, cat, bird, or other pet as you are?

Get Your Cat or Dog Ready for Boarding
You’ll want to be sure your pet is a good candidate for boarding before you leave them for an extended stay at any Sonoma County pet boarding kennels in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale or near you. While most pets will acclimate well to a quality kennel, but some may have a harder time adjusting than others.

Aggressive pets, unsocialized pets, pets with major heath problems, or those with serious anxiety issues may not be good candidates for boarding. You should discuss the details with the pet boarding facilities you are considering if your pet has any health or behavior problems. Professional pet caretakers in Sonoma County should be able to help assess and evaluate whether your pet will thrive in their facilities.

For most pets, there are a few things you can do to help get them ready for boarding. First, be sure your pet knows and minds basic commands. You’ll want them to have good manners when interacting with kennel staff. They should also be socialized with people and pets, other than those that live in your home.

Whether or not the Sonoma County kennel you’ve chosen requires an orientation visit, you may want to schedule a few daycare visits or overnight stays before a longer stay. This can help ease your mind about the care your pet will receive, prove to you that the dog kennel or cat kennel is a good fit for your needs, and help your pet feel at home when he or she stays there.

When you drop off your pet for boarding, you’ll want to check in your pet, sign any paperwork, give the staff your emergency contact number or authorized contact, and remind the staff of any special needs or medical conditions.

Then, hand off your pet to one of the kennel staff and leave. Pets do best when they leave you on upbeat circumstances, not emotional goodbyes. In fact, lingering too long, crying or prolonging the parting may stress your pet and make them feel that something is wrong. Instead, think of this as an exciting vacation for your pet, and trust that your careful research has put them in the best hands possible for your vacation or time apart.

SANTA ROSA-You are the customer. If your goal is to choose an auto oil change service that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified automotive oil change shop. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated car oil change service and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

Mike Campbell is a 10-year veteran of the pet boarding industry and owner of Paradise Pet Resorts, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (707) 563-9544 or by email.

Mike Campbell

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Mike Campbell: It’s a Dog’s Life

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

ROHNERT PARK — After 26 years working in retail, Mike Campbell was ready for a change, so when a unique opportunity came to his attention, he didn’t hesitate to let his career go to the dogs. “My mom told me that a family friend in Colorado had started a Camp Bow Wow franchise, and it piqued my interest,” he recounts. “I’ve always loved animals, and I also wanted to run my own business, so a pet boarding franchise seemed like a perfect situation. It wasn’t long before I started my own Camp Bow Wow franchise here in the North Bay. After five years with the franchise, I felt I was ready to strike out on my own, so I founded my own pet boarding business in 2007.”

Today, as owner of Paradise Pet Resorts, Mike says his favorite part of his job is interacting with his customers, both animal and human. “It’s neat to build relationships with my clients and their pets. When you care for someone’s pet, you sort of become an extended part of their family, so it’s a unique and rewarding dynamic.”

Originally from Southern California, Mike today resides in Santa Rosa, where he appreciates his central proximity to all the Bay Area has to offer. “I feel like this is the best place in the world to live,” he says. “We have the wine country, the beaches, the mountains and the most beautiful city in the world: San Francisco. It just doesn’t get any better.”

While Mike devotes the bulk of his time to running and developing his business, he does enjoy the occasional respite by going to the movies, going wine tasting and sampling the diverse local cuisine. Additionally, he likes hanging out with his favorite furry companions: Leah, a golden retriever, and Lewey, a terrier-chihuahua mix. “Leah is the love of my life, and Lewey is a tough little guy with a lot of spirit. I get the feeling he thinks he’s a lot bigger than he actually is.”

In regard to his life and career, Mike says life’s too short not to do what you love. “In general, I think the most important thing is to enjoy every day, and that includes your work. A lot of people seem to view work as a necessary evil, but for me, it’s a joy and a privilege. After all, when you’re able to do something you love, it hardly feels like work at all.”

The Benefits of Dog Daycare

by Mike Campbell, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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ROHNERT PARK — Many dog owners make a habit of leaving their dogs home alone while they’re at work during the day. However, there’s a better option that not only ensures your dog is supervised, but actually nurtures its physical and… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Socializing Your Dog

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Complete Video Transcription:

ROHNERT PARK — Host, Sarah Rutan: Besides exercise and nutrition, an important part of caring for a dog’s health is providing opportunities for socialization. Today we’re in…
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David Weiss is owner of Four Paws Pet Ranch, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (707) 902-3984 or by email.

David Weiss

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

David Weiss: Dog Days

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SANTA ROSA – David Weiss started his professional life in the high tech field, but after investing years in a promising career, he suddenly found himself struggling to stay afloat in an inundated industry. However, it wasn’t long before a fateful interaction would open the door to a new and exciting transition. “I was doing general consulting at the time, and one of the businesses I was working with happened to be a pet services company,” he remembers. “One day while meeting with the company owner, he told me I should get into the business. While I had never considered it before, I’ve always had a heart for animals—as a kid, I was always bringing home stray cats and dogs. I was intrigued by the idea of doing something I really loved, and after giving it some thought, I decided to just go for it.”

After purchasing a local dog kennel, David spent the next few months renovating the property, which had fallen into disrepair over the years. “It was like something you’d see in a movie, where the characters find an old, run-down restaurant or theater and decide they’re going to bring it back to life,” he says. “It was a true diamond in the rough.” Upon completing renovations, David opened Four Paws Pet Ranch in 2009.

After five years in business, David says one of the things he enjoys most is seeing his vision for Four Paws Pet Ranch come to fruition. “I love taking an idea and making it a reality. For instance, we recently opened a members-only dog park, which is something I’ve been thinking about for the past three years. I find it very satisfying to implement these kinds of improvements and see our clients and their dogs enjoying them.”

Originally from New York, David now lives in Sonoma County with his wife, Gina, and their two children, Briana and Andrew, whom he cites as an additional influence on his career decision. “My kids definitely inherited my love of animals,” he says. “They’ve both been involved in 4H, and Briana just graduated from the animal science program at Chico State. Like any parent, I’d love to see them take over the family business one day.”

Outside of work, one of David’s primary hobbies is playing music. “I’ve been playing guitar for 40 years, but I still take lessons just to keep improving, and I like to jam with my friends whenever possible,” he says. Another of David’s favorite pastimes is camping with his family. “We have an annual camping trip that we’ve been doing for 20 years now. It’s a huge group—generally about 60 or more extended family members and friends—so that’s something we look forward to each year.”

In his life and career, David emphasizes the importance of focus when it comes to achieving long-term goals. “If you have a vision, there will always be hurdles you have to jump over in order to achieve it,” he explains. “The trick is to focus not on the hurdles, but on the vision itself. By maintaining a correct focus, you’ll be able to make it over the hurdles and attain your goal.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What was your first pet?
A: A beagle named Frisky.

Q: If you had a theme song, what would it be?
A: Something’s Coming from West Side Story.

Q: What’s your favorite band?
A: Pink Floyd.

Q: What’s your dream four-piece band (guitar, bass, vocals and drums)?
A: Me and three other guys my age who just want to play!

Q: What’s one movie that people would be surprised you haven’t seen?
A: Old Yeller.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Watch an old World War II submarine movie.

The Importance of Socializing Your Dog

by David Weiss, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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SANTA ROSA — While nutrition, exercise and affection are crucial elements for keeping your dog healthy and happy, an often overlooked aspect of canine wellness is socialization. Though dogs have become a domesticated species over time, they’re still pack animals by… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Happy

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Complete Video Transcription:

SANTA ROSA — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you have a dog, you'll want to be sure to put them in situations where they are able to socialize…
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Two Paradise Pet Resorts guests enjoy some play time before their grooming appointments.

Four Paws Pet Ranch

Four Paws Pet Ranch

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

INDUSTRY INFORMATION - Sonoma County – Pet Boarding

Know What You Want

Decide What Pet Boarding Services You Need

Before calling or visiting any local dog kennels, cat boarding facilities or other pet care locations near you, think about what type of services you want for your pet.

Write down any special items that you want to remember or look for as you continue your search. This list will help keep you focused on the important parts of your search, and it will help ensure that the kennel or pet boarding facility where you end up taking your pet will meet your needs and those of your dog, cat or other pet.

What pet/s do I need to board? (Various pet kennels in Sonoma County can accommodate dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, pocket pets such as hamsters and rats, reptiles including snakes and iguanas, birds and others.)

How long will my pet need to be kenneled?

Does my pet have special needs (such as food or medication, incontinence or medical problems, daily grooming or brushing requirements, anxiety or other issues) that the Sonoma County pet boarding facility will have to take into account?

Are there any special services I’d like from the local pet kennel at which I board my dog, cat, bird, rabbit or other pet? (These may include socialization with other animals, social playgroups, one-on-one time with kennel staff, grooming or bathing, training classes, medication application, inside-outside access, playtime, feeding of their own food, etc.)

What professional and personal attributes do I want from the staff who will be caring for my dog, cat or other pet? (These may include experience with animals like mine, kindness, honesty, reliability, patience, veterinary experience, behavioral experience, etc.)

What To Ask In Person

Visit Local Pet Boarding Kennels in Sonoma County

Once you’ve interviewed several local pet boarding kennels in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park or areas near you, you will be able to winnow down your list to only the Sonoma County pet care kennels that can best meet your needs.

Now is the time to make an appointment to visit these facilities so that you can take a tour, meet the staff, and see how the program works. You’ll want to bring along another list of questions to ask in person to verify that the facility can adequately care for your dog or cat, and that the kennel provides the services you need.

Some facilities may ask you to bring your pet for the tour, others may only want to talk with you and arrange a different time to meet your dog or cat. So be sure to ask whether or not to bring your pet before you show up for the arranged tour.

Do you recommend a shorter stay or day visit for my pet before he or she stays for a longer visit?

Will someone be on the premises 24 hours a day?

What are your policies regarding illness or changes in my pet’s health while he or she is boarding at your facility?

How do you organize the feeding and medication administration?

If I can bring my pet’s own food, how do you want me to do that (one big bag of food, individually-measured portions, etc.)?

Can my pet bring a toy, belongings (such as a blanket or t-shirt from home) or special treats?

What should I do to prepare my dog or cat for this stay?

If you provide playtime, will you show me where my dog will be playing?

How do you select the other dogs/cats that will be boarded with, playing with or interacting with my pet?

Where will my pet be sleeping at night?

What is your protocol for misbehaving, unhappy, upset or ill pets?

If my pet becomes ill, will you call me right away? Will you take him or her to my own veterinarian, or do you have a local vet you use?

Articles Index

What To Ask References

Talk with References of Local Pet Boarding Services in Sonoma County

It’s best to choose a Diamond Certified pet boarding facilities because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a pet boarding facilities in Sonoma County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies.

And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers in Cotati, Windsor, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Guerneville and Healdsburg and beyond.

If you can’t find a Diamond Certified dog kennel or cat boarding facility near you, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, it’s wise to call some references provided by your pet boarding facilities.

Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by pet boarding facilities are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references given to customers from local kennels are often cherry-picked to include the best customers instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the pet care facilities will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the Sonoma County pet boarding kennel’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

Then, call and interview each of these clients. Have a list of questions written down, and ask them to share their impressions and experiences with you.

Sample questions you may want to ask include these:

What type of pet did you board with ____(Sonoma County pet kennel name)____?

How long did your dog/cat/bird/horse/etc. stay at this pet care facility?

How long have you been trusting this kennel to care for your pet(s)?

Do you feel that your pet was well cared-for?

What did you like best about this kennel?

Did you have any concerns about this kennel or the way they cared for your pet?

Will you bring your pet back to this kennel the next time you need to board your dog or cat?

Have you recommended this facility to friends or family who have pets?

Review Your Options

Review Your Choices for Pet Kennels in Sonoma County

The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

Now you’ve talked with the owners and staff of several local pet care facilities in Sonoma County, you’ve visited and toured the facilities, and you’ve heard first-hand accounts of the type of care you and your pet can expect from recent customers.

When you consider all of the facts and information, you should have a good idea of which boarding kennel is right for your pet.

But before deciding on the best pet boarding facilities in Sonoma County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions:

Did one Sonoma County pet boarding kennel stand out from the rest in terms of pet care, facilities, staff, dates, cost and amenities?

Is the staff at the local pet care kennels knowledgeable about your pet and his/her needs?

Did one of the kennels make you feel more comfortable about boarding your pet there?

Is the pet boarding center sensitive to your pet’s special needs and comfort?

How To Work With

Finding the Best Pet Boarding Kennel in Sonoma County for You and Your Pet

Many pet owners don’t think about their dog boarding or cat boarding options until they need to go out of town on vacation or to visit family, have extensive remodeling done on their homes, or need emergency pet care.

But it’s better for you and your pet if you think seriously about pet kennels and pet sitting options before you need last-minute pet boarding or long-term pet boarding services.

That’s because the best dog kennels and cat boarding centers in Sonoma County, including the more populous cities of Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale, often fill up weeks ahead of time, especially around peak boarding times. It’s also true that many pets can feel nervous the first time they board at a given facility, so they may need some time to settle in and feel like they’re at home.

You may want to start with a daycare visit (if the kennel you’re considering offers doggie daycare or cat daycare options) or a single overnight visit. This will allow your pet to get to know the facility, the staff and the routine before you drop him or her off for a longer visit.

A single day or short-term stay is also a good chance for you to experience the care you and your pet receive and get a better feel for the pet kennel staff and services without risking much. You can experience a shortened replica of a longer stay without a large investment of money or time. You will see how the staff treats your pet and how your pet feels at the facility.

Keep in mind, though, that some pets may need several short stays before they feel at home. Nervous pets, older pets or shy pets may take some time to adjust to new surroundings. If you feel this may be the case for your pet, talk with the kennel staff about how your pet acted while in their care (pets often settle in once their owners are out of sight) and whether they would recommend another short stay before a long stay.

Now That You’ve Found a Local Pet Boarding Facility in Sonoma County or Your Area
Once you’ve found the Sonoma County dog kennel or cat kennel that best suits your needs and those of your pet, you’ll want to secure the dates you need to board your pet. This is usually as simple as calling and reserving the dates. Some kennels in Petaluma, Windsor, Healdsburg, Santa Rosa, Sonoma, Cloverdale, Sebastopol, Cotati, Guerneville and Rohnert Park and beyond require a down-payment or a credit card number on file (especially for very long stays or over holidays or other busy times of year), others only ask for a range of dates.

At this point, your boarding kennel should share with you any requirements for boarding (often proof of vaccinations), optional items you may bring (food, toys, belongings), and a list of items you should not bring (certain toys, treats or other items). They may also give you a range of times for drop off and pick up. Many kennels also offer optional services, such as training or grooming.

You may also be asked to sign a contract for boarding services that protects you and the Sonoma County pet boarding kennel you’ve chosen. These contracts often include a list of expectations and requirements for both you and the kennel, and may release the kennel from accidental injury or illness. Be sure you carefully read the contract and agree to all terms before you sign. You deserve to completely understand the terms and details written in all contracts and paperwork you are asked to sign, so be sure to ask for clarification or explanation if there is anything you don’t understand.

Simple Ways You Can Make Your Pet’s Stay More Comfortable
Good kennels and pet care facilities in Sonoma County are skilled at caring for pets with various needs. However, there are a few things you can do to make your pet’s stay more comfortable and help the staff provide a higher level of care.

Include a list of emergency contact numbers (cell phone numbers if you’ll be in range, or a friend or family member who is authorized to make medical and care decisions in your stead) that will be available the entire time you are boarding your pet.

You may also want to include written instructions in case of emergency (including how much veterinary care to provide in case of illness or injury). You should include your veterinarian’s contact information, especially if your pet has known medical problems.

If allowed, bring your pet’s own food. This can help prevent digestive issues and can make your pet feel more at home. You may be asked to measure out daily portions or provide an approximate measure of how much your pet eats per day. Keep in mind that your pet may need more or less food than normal while boarding, especially if their activity level will be drastically different while you are gone (for example, they may need more food if they will be playing in social playgroups, or less food if they will be more sedentary than they are at home). You may want to provide a few extra portions in case of a delayed return or if the kennel staff feels your pet is looking thin.

If allowed, consider bringing a special chew, compressed rawhide, bully sticks, treats, Kongs or busy bones for evenings or times when your pet will be kenneled. This may help them feel more at home. Remember, though, too many new treats may cause tummy upset, so ration them accordingly.

If welcomed, consider bringing a toy, blanket, t-shirt, or another belonging that smells like home. This can help pets—especially anxious pets—feel more at home in a new place.

Ask if there are any items or information you can provide to ease your pet’s transition. There may be simple things you can do or bring to make your pet more comfortable and ease the kennel staff’s care of your pet.

Remember that the Sonoma County kennel staff are professionals. You can share some details about your pet and how you care for him or her at home, but trust the pet care facility to do their best to care for your dog or cat. Pets usually slip into new routines at kennels easily, especially pack animals like dogs, so they may act differently when you’re away. If you’ve done your homework and found a good kennel at which to board your pet, you should feel confident in their ability to care for your pet.

Be a Good Customer

How Can You Be a Good Pet Boarding Facilities Customer?

It’s your pet boarding kennel’s responsibility to care for your dog, cat or other pet while you’re out of town. But you also play a big part in the success of your pet’s kenneling experience.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a Sonoma County pet boarding facilities.

Be frank with the pet boarding facilities. Let them know what you expect from the pet kennel and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.

Remember, remaining calm, friendly and understanding can help build and maintain a positive working relationship with your dog kennel or cat boarding kennel.

Before you make reservations at pet care facilities in Sonoma County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate your understanding of the agreement, including drop off and pick up dates and times, rates and any special instructions or promises made. Most problems with local pet boarding facilities occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.

Ask your pet kennel if you can call for updates on your pet’s stay or if they will call you with updates.

Be sure the Sonoma County pet kennel at which you’re boarding your dog or cat has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while your pet is in their care. If you are going to be unavailable by phone, give them the name of a friend or family member that can make decisions in the rare case of an emergency.

Pay for the pet boarding services promptly.

Why would you want to be a good customer? Pet kennels in Guerneville, Santa Rosa, Sebastopol, Cotati, and Cloverdale and throughout Sonoma County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

If the pet boarding facility you’ve booked is Diamond Certified and you can’t resolve a disagreement by talking with the owner, contact the American Ratings Corporation mediation department at [email protected] or call 800-738-1138.

Easy Ways To End Conflict with Sonoma County Pet Boarding Facilities
You’ve done your part in carefully researching and choosing a good pet kennel in Sonoma County, so chances are good that your pet will have a safe and fun stay and you will be pleased with the service you’re given.

But not every business is perfect, and even the best can sometimes fall short of your expectations, especially when beloved pets are involved.

Remember these tips to increase your chances of getting a good result when handing a disagreement or conflict with your pet boarding center:

Meet with the pet boarding facility owner or kennel manager in person immediately when you have a complaint or a concern with the service you’ve received or the care your pet has received. You may want to have a telephone conversation to address your questions if you are away and your pet is still kenneled at the time you become concerned.

Review the pet boarding contract and try to verbally resolve the problem based on your initial agreement.

Write down your complaint. Document the times you contacted your Sonoma County pet boarding kennel and the staff’s responses to your concerns / complaints.

Set a deadline for the resolution. Be up front with your pet boarding facility staff that you’re upset and willing to work toward a mutually-beneficial solution.

If your pet is ill or has health problems after their boarding stay, consult a veterinarian.

You may legally withhold payment until the dispute is resolved.

Contact your state attorney general if you are considering pressing charges against the kennel for serious grievances about the health or well-being of your pet.

Top 10 Requests

Popular Pet Boarding Services in Sonoma County

Each dog kennel or cat boarding facility in Sonoma County offers a different range of services, which may include pet boarding, training, grooming and playtime, among others. You’ll want to ask the local kennel of your choice which services and amenities they offer. To give you an idea of what’s available, the list below includes the 10 most commonly-requested pet boarding services in Sonoma County, including Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Cotati, Cloverdale and Rohnert Park, Annapolis, Lytton, Vineburg, Occidental, Schellville, Monte Rio, Agua Caliente and Freestone.

Dog Boarding in Sonoma County
Dog boarding is traditionally at a dog kennel location that accepts dogs for short-term and long-term boarding. Customers may take their dogs to Sonoma County dog kennels when they need to house their dogs while on vacation, during home remodeling when their pet can’t stay in their home, when guests are visiting, if they have to have medical care and temporarily can’t care for their dogs, and other times when their dogs can’t stay at home with them.

Cat Boarding
Catteries, or cat boarding facilities accept cats of all ages for long- and short-term boarding. Most pet owners board their cats while they are on vacation or during home remodeling that makes it impossible to keep their cats at home. Sonoma County cat boarding kennels may also be able to house together cats from the same family so that they feel more comfortable during their stay.

Small Animal Boarding
Small animals such as ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, and other small pets including pocket pets are accepted at some local pet kennels in Sonoma County, including those in Cotati, Windsor, Petaluma, Santa Rosa, Rohnert Park, Guerneville and Healdsburg and other areas. Kennels that offer small animal boarding services often have special areas that separate small animals from larger pets for their comfort.

Specialty Pet Boarding in Sonoma County
Pet owners who have specialty pets such as lizards, snakes, iguanas, sugar gliders, tarantulas, birds such as parrots and songbirds, hedgehogs and other rare pets may have a harder time finding boarding facilities in Sonoma County to accept their pets. However, some facilities may be available.

Dog Training
Board-and-train for dogs is a popular choice for dog owners who want intensive dog training or those who want their dogs to have more mental stimulation while they are kenneled. Some Sonoma County dog boarding facilities offer dog training for boarding dogs and during daytime visits. Call the local dog kennels and training facilities near you to find out of they offer the dog training services you want.

Doggie Daycare / Social Playgroups for Dogs
Dogs are pack animals by nature, and most enjoy the company of other dogs. For this reason, some dog kennels in Sonoma County offer social playgroups and doggie daycare. You may be able to arrange for dog daycare only, or for dog play sessions while your dog is boarding. If you choose a doggie daycare or social playgroup kennel facility, you’ll want to find out how the staff select the dogs that play together and how the groups are monitored.

Sonoma County Petsitters
Some dogs, cats, or rare pets are not good candidates for pet boarding. This may be due to age, temperament or illness. These pets may be best served by Sonoma County petsitters and pet sitting services in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Windsor, Healdsburg, Sonoma and Cloverdale, Cazadero, El Verano, Forestville, Glen Ellen, Graton, Stewarts Point Rancheria and Roseland. Depending on your needs, local pet sitters may stay in your home with your dog or cat, come to your home for scheduled visits to feed and walk your pet, or take care for your pet in their home.

Dog Grooming
Dog grooming, including bathing, blowdrying, brushing, trimming, clipping, ear cleaning, nail trimming, tooth brushing and dematting, may be offered as a stand-alone service or as part of a pet boarding package. Some dog owners like to add grooming to boarding stays so that their dog is fresh and clean for pick-up. Other dogs may need daily brushing depending on their coat.

Cat Grooming
Cat grooming services include dematting, brushing, nail trimming, tooth brushing, seasonal trimming, shaving, and even bathing. As with dogs, these may be stand-alone services or paired with boarding.

Pet Hotels
Many Bay Area cities offer upscale pet boarding in the form of pet hotels. These may be luxury pet boarding kennels that include private rooms and specialty care for dogs, cats and other pampered pets. These facilities may include spa treatments, innerspring mattresses or raised beds, personalized temperature control, piped in music, personal attention and catered meals. Some even have cameras so you can view your pet’s activities while you are away.

Glossary Of Terms

Glossary of Pet Boarding and Pet Care Terms

There are many different options for pet boarding facilities and pet care services in the Greater Bay Area. The following glossary will help you better understand the terms—and, therefore, the options—available to you when you need to board your dog, cat, bird or exotic pet.

bird sitting services
Like bird boarding, bird sitting services offer feeding, medical care, grooming and overnight care for pet birds. Bird sitting services tend to be short-term, including bird daycare services. Bird sitting services most commonly occur in your home or in the home or facility of the bird sitter or bird care professional, which can help sensitive birds from becoming stressed or sick.

cat boarding
When you go on vacation, have home remodeling completed, or can’t keep you cat at home for other reasons, you may choose a local cat boarding facility to care for your cat or cats. Good cat boarding locations offer comfortable accommodations for your cat(s), feeding and medicine services, grooming, playtime and socialization. Many cat boarding facilities will allow your cats to stay together so they feel more comfortable.

Also known as: cat care, cat boarding services, cat sitting, cattery

cat sitting
While cat boarding often takes care at a pet boarding facility, cat sitting often happens at your house or at the home of a professional pet sitter. Cat sitting services often take a limited number of pets, so the care may be more personalized. These services may be short visits to feed and check on the pet’s well-being, or may be 24/7 pet sitting. Cat sitting may also be a better choice for elderly cats, or cats that don’t deal with change well, since the cat may be able to stay in your own home.

cattery
Catteries are professional housing for cats. They are usually divided into cat boarding catteries and breeding catteries. Boarding catteries, also known as cat kennels, are usually used to temporarily house cats that cannot stay in their own homes either because their owners are on vacation, having house work done, or need to have their cats cared for in another location.

dog playgroups
Some dog boarding facilities and doggie daycare centers offer dog playgroups. These are social playgroups where dogs can play with other dogs. If you choose a dog kennel that offers dog playgroups, ensure that your dog will be with similar-sized dogs, only well-socialized dogs and that the playgroups are well-managed by competent professionals.

Also known as: social playgroups for dogs, dog playground, social dog boarding

doggie daycare
Dogs that cannot be left home alone, whose owners work long hours, that need extra socialization or that need temporary daytime care may be good candidates for doggie daycare. Local dog daycare centers offer daytime care for dogs of all ages and sizes, and many provide dog playgroups and other socialization.

Also known as: doggy daycare, doggie day care, social dog day care

dog sitting
Dog sitters provide short-term dog care services that can include daytime and overnight. Most dog sitting services are provided in your home, but some dogsitters prefer to bring your dog to their home. Dog sitting may be 24/7 care or can be daily visits to your home to care for pets while you are on vacation or need monitoring for your pet after vet care or during days you cannot be with your pet.

dog walking
Some dog owners require regular or intermittent dog walking services. These are usually provided by a dog walker coming to your home to walk your dog in your neighborhood or general area. Other dog walking services offer off-site dog walking in local parks or scenic areas. Professional dog walking services may be a good fit for individuals who work during the day and want additional stimulation for their dogs, for dogs that need more exercise, or for dogs that enjoy additional exercise and socialization while owners are gone. Dog walkers can also help keep dogs exercised for customers who have long-term or short-term medical conditions, disabilities, injuries or issues that prevent them from walking their dogs regularly.

Also known as: professional dog walking services, at-home dog walkers

grooming services
Grooming services for pets include bathing, brushing, hair trimming, blow-drys, nail cutting/nail trimming, expressing anal glands, and other personal-care duties as needed, including wing trimming and beak trimming for birds. Grooming services may come to you (mobile dog grooming, mobile cat grooming), but most are based in brick-and-mortar buildings.

large animal boarding
If you own horses, livestock or other large animals, you may need special care for these animals if you can’t keep them at your home or if you go on vacation. Large animal boarding facilities accept horses and other large animals, while large animal and farm animal sitting companies provide in-home pet care for large animals so they can stay in your barn or home.

live-in pet services
Boarding may not be possible for some pets, especially elderly pets, unsocialized pets, pets with health problems, anxious pets, pets that are too young to board, or exotic pets that aren’t accepted at most kennels. Live-in pet care services might be a good option for these pets. Live-in pet care professionals will come to your home and stay with your pet while you are gone so that your pet can be comfortable and relaxed in their own environment.

Also known as: pet sitters, in-home pet sitting

medication administration
Pets that require medication need to be in the care of a professional kennel or petsitter that will reliably and carefully administer all medication on time and in the correct manner. Most kennels offer medication administration for free or at a minimal cost, depending on the boarding facility and the medication needs. Check with your boarding facility to ensure they can give your pet his or her medication correctly and reliably.

Also known as: giving meds

pet care services
Any type of pet-related service can be considered a pet care service. These may include dog boarding, cat boarding, in-house boarding, pet grooming, dog walking, pet training and auxiliary pet care to keep pets safe, comfortable and healthy.

pet resort
Like resorts for people, pet resorts encompass full-scale boarding, grooming, playtime and other pet care needs. Most pet resorts include playtime, such as social playgroups, swimming and exercise time. Be sure you understand all additional fees and requirements before making arrangements.

Also known as: pet hotel, pet camp, dog camp

pet sitting
In-home pet care services for dogs, cats and exotic animals. Pet sitting is a good option for pets that aren’t good candidates for traditional boarding services.

pet taxi services
Pet taxis are pet transportation services that shuttle pets to and from vet appointments, kennels and boarding facilities, training appointments and other locations and appointments. Pet taxis are usually an affordable and convenient way to get your pet where he or she needs to go without having to personally shuttle him or her yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions for Dog Kennels and Cat Boarding Houses

The following questions are those most commonly asked of local pet boarding facilities, kennels and pet hotels. The answers will vary depending on facility, so be sure you ask the vital questions of each pet boarding center you’re considering.

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified pet boarding kennel?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a pet kennel for your dog, cat or exotic animal with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only pet boarding facilities rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified pet boarding facilities.

Q: Can I bring my dog or cat’s own food?
A: Answers will vary depending on the kennel you choose. However, most kennels want you to bring along the food that your pet normally eats. This can prevent gastrointestinal upset and keep your pet healthy and happy while they are boarding. Ask your dog boarding or cat boarding facility if they will allow you to bring your pet’s own food and, if so, if they prefer it in one large bag or in individual servings. You may also want to pack a few extra servings in case you are delayed in picking up your pet or if your pet is more active during their kennel stay and needs increased servings.

Q: Will you give or apply medications that my pet needs?
A: If your pet needs medications or supplements, talk with the boarding kennel about their ability to give medications. If your pet requires injections, pills, topical or other types of medications, ensure that the kennel staff are able to give the medication appropriately. You may want to show the staff how you give complicated medication, and include a schedule if your pet requires many medications or has a difficult schedule.

Q: Will you allow me to tour the kennel before I bring my pet for a stay?
A: Most kennels will allow you to tour the kennel and meet some of the staff before you book a stay. During this visit, the kennel personnel should tell you if they want you to bring your pet or leave him or her at home. Some kennels may require a day of daycare or a single overnight stay before a lengthy stay.

Q: Do you recommend a shorter stay or day visit for my pet before he or she stays for a longer visit?
A: Some kennels may require pets to visit for a day or an overnight before a longer stay. This can help your pet feel more at home when he or she stays for a longer span of time, and can help the staff get to know your pet so they are able to better care for him or her during the long stay. Talk with the pet boarding kennel of your choice about their requirements so that you know what you need to do upfront.

Q: Is your kennel temperature controlled?
A: The best local kennels have temperature controlled kennel spaces to keep dogs, cats, and other pets comfortable during their stay. This may be less important in temperate California climates than other parts of the country, but it is still wise to know if the kennel you are choosing has heat, air conditioning and adequate ventilation to keep your pet comfortable and safe in the case of extreme or inclement weather.

Q: Will my dog have indoor/outdoor access during the day? What about at night?
A: Some dog kennels offer 24/7 indoor-outdoor access. Others offer indoor-outdoor access during the day but not at night. Some only provide outdoor access during supervised walk times. You should know what kind of access your dog will have and how long he or she will be indoors without outdoor access. This is especially important if you have an older dog, one with incontinence issues or a puppy that is being potty-trained or is newly house-trained.

Q: Do you offer social playtime with other dogs?
A: Dogs are pack animals that often enjoy the company of other dogs. Many local dog kennels offer social playtime with other dogs. If that is one of the amenities offered by your pet boarding facility, you should ask careful questions about the size of the play groups, how long the dogs get to play, who decides which dogs play together and how they make that decision, how the dogs are supervised while at play, and what charges (if any) are incurred by adding playtime to your dogs schedule.

Q: Is the fee all-inclusive, or are there extra charges for playtime, feedings, medication and special extras?
A: Some pet boarding kennels offer all-inclusive services for a set fee, while others offer a la carte options that cost extra per choice. For example, playtime with other pets and people, rounds of fetch, personal dog walking, feeding your own food, medication administration, grooming and special treats may be part of the package or may each cost extra. Ask during your interview process how fees are incurred, what is included in the flat fee and what options are available. You may find that kennels with a higher flat fee but no extra charges for playtime and feedings are less expensive in the end than cheap kennels that charge for every feeding and outing.

Q: Will someone be on the premises 24 hours a day?
A: You should know if someone will be with your pet on the premises 24-hours, or if there are times when the kennel guests are unattended. If the pets are unattended, what is the kennel’s procedure for identifying and dealing with emergencies that occur during off-hours?

Q: What are your policies regarding injury, illness or changes in my pet’s health while he or she is boarding at your facility?
A: Pets can become accidentally injured or ill at even the best pet boarding facilities. What’s important is that the kennel have a policy and procedures in place to deal with injuries, illness or changes in pet health while they are boarding. Your pet kennel should be able to tell you how they handle illnesses and injury, and how they deal with pets that appear to be becoming ill or unsafely stressed during their stay. Most kennels have a relationship with a local veterinarian, although some may be able to work with your own vet if they are in close proximity. You should also confirm if the kennel will call you (or an authorized friend or family member) in case of injury or illness.